Preparing Artwork for Professional Printing
The right file checks prevent avoidable delays, blurry images and unexpected results.
Confirm the finished size
Ask your printer for the exact finished dimensions, bleed, safe area and required PDF settings. Do not rely on a screenshot or a document designed only for screen viewing.
Check images and colour
Use original high-resolution pictures with the right permissions. Colour can differ between screens and printed materials; follow the print supplier’s colour-profile specifications.
Proof before ordering
Review names, addresses, phone numbers and quantities. Request a proof when available, particularly for personalised bulk orders or items that cannot be easily reprinted.
Confirm technical specifications
Before sending artwork to print, confirm dimensions, bleed requirements, safe margins, resolution, colour profile and accepted file formats with the selected printer. The right settings depend on the product and machine. A test proof can be especially useful for colour-sensitive or high-volume work.
Separate design from production
Ask your supplier to distinguish artwork preparation, proofing, physical manufacture, packaging, shipping and taxes. This makes it easier to compare quotations and understand why a small design revision may be inexpensive while a new production run has a different cost.
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